Welcome to Normally the Show

Remembering Dolly Parton

Election Results and Political Implications

Meta's Legal Troubles and Social Media

Bill Gates on AI's Impact

Tributes to Dolly Parton

Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz are back on Normally to break down the latest political, cultural, and technology stories — and remember the extraordinary life and legacy of country music legend Dolly Parton.

First, they dig into the latest election results and what victories by Trump-backed candidates say about Donald Trump’s continued influence over the Republican Party. They also look ahead to the 2026 midterm elections, the battle for control of the House and Senate, and whether Republicans can overcome what could be a difficult political environment.

Then, Mary Katharine and Karol tackle the growing fight over children and social media after Meta faces major legal consequences over allegations involving Facebook, Instagram, and harm to minors. Are lawsuits and government regulation really the answer — or do parents ultimately have to take control of their kids’ phones and social media use?

Plus, Bill Gates is sounding the alarm about artificial intelligence and its potential to eliminate jobs and cause major economic disruption. Is an AI-driven employment crisis really coming, or are predictions of catastrophe overlooking the opportunities created by technological change?

Finally, Mary Katharine and Karol remember Dolly Parton, her legendary songwriting career, her faith, humor, generosity, Imagination Library, and the remarkable ability she had to remain beloved across political and cultural divides. They also react to the King’s Guard honoring Dolly with a performance of “9 to 5” following her death.

Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz are back on Normally to break down the latest political, cultural, and technology stories &mdash; and remember the extraordinary life and legacy of country music legend Dolly Parton.
First, they dig into the latest election results and what victories by Trump-backed candidates say about Donald Trump&rsquo;s continued influence over the Republican Party. They also look ahead to the 2026 midterm elections, the battle for control of the House and Senate, and whether Republicans can overcome what could be a difficult political environment.
Then, Mary Katharine and Karol tackle the growing fight over children and social media after Meta faces major legal consequences over allegations involving Facebook, Instagram, and harm to minors. Are lawsuits and government regulation really the answer &mdash; or do parents ultimately have to take control of their kids&rsquo; phones and social media use?
Plus, Bill Gates is sounding the alarm about artificial intelligence and its potential to eliminate jobs and cause major economic disruption. Is an AI-driven employment crisis really coming, or are predictions of catastrophe overlooking the opportunities created by technological change?
Finally, Mary Katharine and Karol remember Dolly Parton, her legendary songwriting career, her faith, humor, generosity, Imagination Library, and the remarkable ability she had to remain beloved across political and cultural divides. They also react to the King&rsquo;s Guard honoring Dolly with a performance of &ldquo;9 to 5&rdquo; following her death.

Normally is the podcast for normal people, by normal people. We’re going to limit the hysteria, tone down the crazy, and talk about what really matters. Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz have been in the political commentary world a long time. Both are known for being funny, and a bit irreverent, but also serious and thoughtful about the issues that are important to the country. Catch Normally every Tuesday & Thursday on the iHeartRadio App, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Normally is the podcast for normal people, by normal people. We&rsquo;re going to limit the hysteria, tone down the crazy, and talk about what really matters. Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz have been in the political commentary world a long time. Both are known for being funny, and a bit irreverent, but also serious and thoughtful about the issues that are important to the country. Catch Normally every Tuesday &amp; Thursday on the iHeartRadio App, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.&nbsp;

Normally

Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz are back on Normally to break down the latest political, cultural, and technology stories — and remember the extraordinary life and legacy of country music legend Dolly Parton.

Normally Podcast: Dolly Parton’s Legacy, Trump’s Winning Endorsements & the Coming AI Shakeup

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/dcbf1b47-715f-4de5-b8d0-b4b3001e9f43/transcript